Understanding how brain activation changes during drug abuse
The neuropharmacology of brain activation during stages of drug abuse
This study is looking at how brain chemicals like dopamine change when someone uses drugs repeatedly, using advanced imaging techniques on nonhuman primates to help us understand addiction better and eventually help people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11036352 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain's response to drug abuse. By using advanced imaging techniques like PET and fMRI, the study aims to explore how repeated drug exposure alters brain signaling and connectivity. The research will be conducted in nonhuman primates to develop methods that can eventually be applied to human studies, focusing on the complex interactions between different neuroreceptors involved in addiction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of drug abuse or addiction who are seeking new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by drug addiction or those who have not engaged in substance use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for individuals struggling with addiction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding addiction through neuroimaging techniques, making this approach both innovative and grounded in existing science.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sander, Christin Y. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sander, Christin Y.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.